There are higher profile improvements under way in the city, but few are more appreciated by frequent visitors to Mohegan Park than a recent upgrade to a small footbridge near Spaulding Pond.

“I mean, look at it. It just really adds to the area,” said Franklin resident Jason Daggett, who walked across it on a sunny Tuesday afternoon. “It’s awesome.”

Public Works Director Barry Ellison said the small bridge was in need of repair, with rotting wood and a surface that started to chip. Crews spent the past few days upgrading it, and it reopened to the public last Thursday.

“The days it was out were an inconvenience, so we tried to get back online as soon as possible,” Ellison said. “I think it looks great. It’s so good I put it in my council (budget) presentation.”

Photos of his department members working on the bridge were included in Ellison’s slide show to the City Council, and all upgrades were done “in-house.”

Ellison said the structure was in poor condition, and presented a safety hazard to those who visit the park.

Beryl Fishbone, a Norwich resident and frequent visitor to the park, said the project was a welcomed addition.

“I’m thrilled. It enhances the usability and overall feeling that people have when they come here, that the city cares and wants it to be a safe place to go,” she said.

Finishing the bridge so early in the season frees up crews to work on other projects, and the Mohegan Park Improvement and Development Committee is continuing to provide input to the city on other ventures that can take place there.

That includes redevelopment plants for a portion of Mohegan Park Road the council voted to close in January 2012.

Back on the Spaulding Pond trail, Daggett said he’s glad to see the city focus its efforts on maintaining the park.

“I think it’s definitely one of the nicest places around Norwich,” he said. “It’s good to see.”